Plaster
Definition and meaning of Plaster in real estate.
Plaster is a wet building material made from water, sand, and lime or gypsum that is applied to walls and ceilings to create a smooth, durable finish. This traditional material is typically found in homes built before the mid-twentieth century, when drywall became the standard.
In more detail
Plaster is applied in multiple layers over wood or metal strips, known as lath, requiring significant skilled labor. It offers superior soundproofing and fire resistance compared to modern drywall, but it is also more expensive and labor-intensive to repair. Over time, plaster can crack due to settling, moisture, or temperature fluctuations.
Buyers of older homes should inspect plaster walls for signs of sagging or detachment from the underlying lath structure.
Key facts
| Category | Property Types & Construction |
|---|---|
| Applies to | Interior walls and ceilings |
| Typical age | Homes built before the 1950s |
| Watch out for | Cracks and sagging plaster |
An investor restoring a historic house built in the early twentieth century hires a specialized contractor to repair the cracked plaster walls in the dining room rather than replacing them with drywall.
Frequently asked questions
Is plaster better than modern drywall?
Plaster provides better sound insulation and fire resistance, but drywall is much cheaper, faster to install, and easier to repair.
How can I tell if my walls are plaster or drywall?
Plaster walls are typically cold to the touch, hard to push a pin into, and sound solid when tapped, whereas drywall sounds hollow and yields to pins easily.